Abstract: The invention discloses the existence of cannabinoid receptors in the airways, which are functionally linked to inhibition of cough. Locally acting cannabinoid agents can be administered to the airways of a subject to ameliorate cough, without causing the psychoactive effects characteristic of systemically administered cannabinoids. In addition, locally or systemically administered cannabinoid inactivation inhibitors can also be used to ameliorate cough. The present invention also defines conditions under which cannabinoid agents can be administered to produce anti-tussive effects devoid of bronchial constriction.

Abstract: Novel pharmaceutical therapeutic compositions and methods for using same for the treatment of pain experienced by an individual are provided. The compositions contain at least one member selected from among anandamide and palmitylethanolamide.

Abstract: Methods are disclosed for treating or preventing disorders such as mental diseases, inflammation and pain by inhibiting the enzyme anandamide amidohydrolase. A therapeutically effective level of an anandamide amidohydrolase inhibitor is administered such as a therapeutically effective level of a haloenol lactone. Preferably, the haloenol lactone is of the formula: ##STR1## wherein R is hydrogen, R.sub.1 is a halogen, and R.sub.2 is selected from the group consisting of aryl, aryloxy, and heteroaryl radicals, derivatives of said haloenol lactones, and mixtures thereof. The haloenol lactone, E-6-(bromomethylene)tetrahydro-3-(1-naphthalenyl)-2H-pyrane-2-one, is most preferred.